"Canal Saint-Martin runs through one of the hippest neighborhoods in Paris. While the canal itself was commissioned in 1802 by Napoleon I to bring fresh water into the city, the vibe is distinctly contemporary with some of Paris's hottest restaurants, cafés and bars scattered alongside it. The contrast of the urban (think graffiti) with the placid (think canal tour boats) is one of the distinct charms of the walk." - Melissa Liebling-Goldberg